Catalysis Scientist Specialist

The posting, as Braskem wrote it

With a strategy centered on people and sustainability, Braskem is engaged in contributing to the value chain to strengthen the Circular Economy. Braskem’s 9,000 team members dedicate themselves every day to improving people's lives through sustainable solutions in chemicals and plastics. With its corporate DNA rooted in innovation, Braskem offers a comprehensive portfolio of plastic resins and chemical products for diverse industries, such as food packaging, construction, manufacturing, automotive, agribusiness, health and hygiene, and more. With 40 industrial units in Brazil, the United States, Mexico, and Germany, Braskem exports its products to clients in over 70 countries.

Braskem America is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Braskem S.A. headquartered in Philadelphia. The company is the leading producer of polypropylene in the United States, with six production plants located in Texas, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, as well as an Innovation and Technology Center in Pittsburgh and a New Renewable Innovation Center in Lexington, which focuses on leveraging groundbreaking developments in biotechnology and chemical catalysis. For more information, visit www.braskem.com/usa .

Department: Innovation & Technology

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Travel Involved: Less than 25%

Job Type: Hybrid

Description

Braskem is seeking a motivated scientist to support research and development activities within the Global Catalysis organization. The Global Catalysis organization discovers and develops catalytic solutions to support Braskem's strategic goals in bio-based chemicals, specialty products, and polyolefins catalysis.

The successful candidate will have a strong foundation in heterogeneous catalysis and catalyst development, with experience gained through doctoral research and/or early industrial practice. The scientist will contribute to catalyst synthesis, characterization, testing, and technology development projects while working closely with multidisciplinary teams across research, engineering, analytical sciences, and manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities Include

• Contribute to catalysis research projects focused on developing new catalysts and processes to improve process performance and enable new product development.
• Design and execute experimental programs for the synthesis, characterization, and performance evaluation of heterogeneous catalysts.
• Analyze experimental data and correlate catalyst properties with catalytic performance.
• Support the development of zeolite-based and metal-supported catalyst systems through laboratory-scale research activities.
• Contribute to catalyst preparation activities including synthesis, modification, shaping, and metal deposition.
• Assist in catalyst scale-up and technology transfer activities by collaborating with internal teams and external partners.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation to communicate project results and recommendations.
• Collaborate wit

[…]
Exposure to scale-up, manufacturing support, or technology transfer activities is a plus but not required.

• Strong data analysis and technical problem-solving skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present technical results clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong safety mindset and commitment to laboratory excellence.
• Enthusiasm for learning, innovation, and continuous professional development

What we offer

At Braskem, we offer more than just a competitive pay package. Our total rewards package includes a wide range of benefits you need for every stage of your life. Our benefits include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits
• Retirement Benefits
• Maternity and Paternity Leave
• Life Insurance
• Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Teladoc
• A wide range of voluntary benefits like Pet Insurance, Legal and ID Theft Insurance
• Flexible work schedules like 9/80 schedules for eligible team members

Depending on qualifications, the successful candidate may be offered a position at a more appropriate level and/or ladder.

Candidates must be currently eligible to work in the United States without the need for any type of sponsorship now or in the future. Braskem is committed to equal employment opportunity and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified candidates and employees according to applicable law. We value and encourage diversity and solicit applications from all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. If you require reasonable accommodation as part of the application process, please contact the Talent Acquisition team.